Fairfield Delegation Announces $100,000 STEAP Award to Improve Accessibility to Fairfield Beaches

May 9, 2012

The Fairfield legislative delegation today announced that the Town of Fairfield has received a $100,000 STEAP grant to construct beach access for people with disabilities, including the construction of ramps and handicap accessible bathrooms. State Senator John McKinney (R-28), along with state representatives Brenda Kupchick (R-132), Kim Fawcett (R-133) and Tony Hwang (R-134) sponsored the Town of Fairfield’s request and today applauded the award.

“Fairfield’s beaches are an indelible part of our community – a great setting for social events and family recreation. Along with other recent improvements, this funding will make it easier for more of our neighbors to enjoy a day at the beach,” said Senator McKinney.

Representative Kupchick said, “Having served on the Park & Rec Commission as a Board of Education Rep. I heard from many residents with disabilities who asked the town for safe access to the beaches. Access is an important right to all our residents, especially those who are disabled. These funds assist the town in providing that access.

“I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to see this project through to the end,” said Representative Fawcett. “For many years we have all been working together to help move the Penfield project to completion. This additional funding will help to ensure Fairfield residents will have a beautiful beach facility to enjoy for years to come.”

“This allocation of STEAP funding is a welcomed help in supporting the Town of Fairfield in building needed improvements for people with disabilities at its beaches. This project will ensure the beauty of Fairfield’s beachfront can be enjoyed by all the residents in our community,” said Representative Hwang.

The Connecticut Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), administered by the Office of Policy and Management, provides financial assistance for capital projects that encourage economic development and preserve the character of the state’s less populated towns.

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